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This crustless tuna breakfast quiche has transformed my morning routine with its perfect balance of protein and vegetables. I've found it to be the ultimate make-ahead breakfast solution for busy weekdays when I need something substantial and nutritious.
I created this recipe during a particularly hectic work week when I needed nutritious breakfasts without daily cooking. Now it's become my Sunday ritual to prepare these quiches for stress free mornings.
Ingredients
- Eggs: Form the protein rich base that sets beautifully when baked
- Zucchini and carrot: Add moisture, nutrients, and a subtle sweetness
- Onion: Provides aromatic flavor and essential depth
- Canned tuna: Offers convenient, high-quality protein without cooking meat
- Fresh herbs (basil and dill): Brighten the flavor profile dramatically
- Cream cheese: Creates silky texture and richness throughout the quiche
- Oats: Add fiber and structure without needing a traditional crust
- Salt and pepper: Balance all flavors; use freshly ground pepper for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 180C/350F which ensures proper cooking without drying out the quiche. While waiting, finely chop the basil and dill to release their aromatic oils. Grate the vegetables using the medium side of a box grater for even texture throughout. Properly drain the tuna by pressing it in a fine mesh strainer to remove excess liquid that could make your quiche watery.
- Create The Base:
- Whisk the cream cheese with eggs until completely smooth. This may take 1 to 2 minutes by hand but creates the silky texture that makes this quiche special. Take your time here as eliminating lumps now ensures even baking later.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Fold in all remaining ingredients using a gentle hand to maintain air in the egg mixture. Season thoughtfully with salt, considering the saltiness already present in the tuna. The mixture should look fairly wet but evenly combined.
- Baking Process:
- Line your chosen pan with parchment paper allowing some overhang for easy removal. Pour the mixture in carefully, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the center rack for approximately 20 minutes until the center is just set but still has a slight jiggle. The quiche will continue firming as it cools.
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The fresh herbs make all the difference in this recipe. I remember serving this to my brother who typically avoids fish completely. He had seconds and asked for the recipe, having not even realized it contained tuna. The herbs completely transform the flavor profile into something fresh and inviting rather than fishy.
Perfect Storage Solutions
This quiche maintains excellent quality when refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat individual slices in a toaster oven for 5 minutes rather than microwaving which can make the texture rubbery. If freezing, wrap individual portions in parchment paper first, then place in freezer bags with the air pressed out. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Smart Substitutions
This recipe welcomes customization based on what you have available. Cottage cheese works beautifully in place of cream cheese for a higher protein option. Canned salmon makes an excellent alternative to tuna, offering more omega-3 fatty acids. For a low carb version, replace the oats with almond flour or simply omit them and add an extra egg for structure. Dairy free? Substitute nutritional yeast and a tablespoon of dairy free yogurt for the cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions
While perfect on its own, this quiche pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh greens dressed simply with lemon juice and olive oil. For a more substantial meal, add sliced avocado on the side. I often pack a slice with cherry tomatoes and cucumber for an office lunch that requires no reheating. During cooler months, serve with a small cup of clear vegetable soup for a comforting complete meal.
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This crustless tuna quiche is a quick and adaptable breakfast solution for anyone seeking nutritious, make-ahead meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes, this quiche is excellent for meal prep. After baking and cooling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold or reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven.
- → How do I make this quiche low-carb?
To make this quiche low-carb, simply omit the oats or replace them with almond flour. The recipe only contains 4g of carbohydrates per serving as written, but this substitution will reduce the carb content further.
- → Can I make this quiche dairy-free?
Yes, for a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
- → What can I serve with this quiche?
This quiche pairs well with a simple green salad, sliced avocado, or fresh fruit for a complete breakfast. For lunch or dinner, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a hearty soup.
- → Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute cooked, flaked fresh tuna for the canned variety. Just ensure it's fully cooked before adding to the mixture, and you may want to season it lightly with salt and lemon juice for flavor.
- → How can I tell when the quiche is fully cooked?
The quiche is done when the center is set and no longer jiggly. You can insert a knife in the center - it should come out clean. The top should be lightly golden. Baking times may vary depending on your oven.